Aras brings first 3D PDF conversion to PLM platforms

By using 3D PDF Aras avoids the need to work with competing proprietary 3D data formats, making an open visualization standard the center of its PLM social visualization strategy.   

Aras says its new CAD-to-3D PDF converter, embedded in its PLM vault server, is a first for the PLM market place. The addition means Aras now supports all the 3D, 2D, Microsoft Office, images, scans, and other data types supported by PDF.

Aras product development manager John Sperling explains why Aras chose 3D PDF as the center of its PLM visual collaboration strategy. A video of his remarks are below. (Source: Aras)
Aras product development manager John Sperling explains why Aras chose 3D PDF as the center of its PLM visual collaboration strategy. A video of his remarks are below. (Source: Aras)

Aras, the only open source PLM server among enterprise PLM products, says they chose to support 3D PDF to eliminate the need to support specialized visualization formats that only work with 3D data, while being as open as possible to competing proprietary and open standards. Aras utilizes the HOOPS technology from Tech Soft 3D for the conversion of all the major 3D formats including Catia, Creo, SolidWorks, NX, JT, and STEP.

Features of the new 3D PDF converter include:

  • Automatically generates 3D PDF viewables and thumbnails
  • Enables 3D measurement, redline and markup, and 3D comments
  • Easily hide, show and isolate components
  • Cross-sectioning and stored views
  • Pervasive PDF format
  • Configurable admin capabilities for what file types get converted and when
  • Option to automatically generate STL files for 3D printers
  • Included for all Aras subscribers.

The 3D PDF converter is now available as a free upgrade to all Aras users.